Placement gave me my first taste of being part of a successful legal case

Ken Yau is an LLB (Hons) Law student who undertook his work placement at Blackfords LLP, a law firm specialising in criminal defence. The company have since asked him to continue his placement alongside his studies.

“I’m loving the whole experience at Blackfords. The firm has taught me that to achieve success, you need to consider both sides of an argument and avoid viewing cases solely from a moral perspective. The practice I’ve had has already benefited my studies. It’s broadened my thinking and it’s given me a taste of what’s to come.

My work at Blackfords LLP has been to contribute to a number of big labour intensive cases, undertaking detailed orientated tasks. I’ve also prioritised jobs for the team and assisted with the law firm’s audit process, which has given me a fantastic overview of the business. I’ve been fortunate to be able to attend court with one of the barristers for an ARW case at Cardiff Crown Court. My role there involved accompanying the client and supporting them throughout. This gave me a great insight into how the courts work and my first taste of being part of a successful legal case.

I was thrilled to be asked to continue working at Blackfords, alongside my studies. I’ve been able to continue my learning whilst networking with like-minded people. I’ve developed my research skills, interpersonal skills and the ability to pay close attention to detail. I’ve also tailored the language I use when dealing with colleagues and clients. These are things you can’t learn until you enter the workplace; so I know I'll be one step ahead of the game when it comes to starting my career."